West Ham United transfer news as Atletico Minerio defender Guilherme Arana wanted in January
West Ham United could formalise their interest in Atletico Minerio defender Guilherme Arana in the January transfer window as they continue their search for a new left-back, according to 90Min.
The UK news outlet (14 October) shares that the Hammers had representatives present at the Arena Pantanal to keep a close eye on the 26-year-old who featured for Brazil in their 1-1 draw at home to Venezuela.
Wolves and Brentford also had representatives watching the Brazilian left-back but the Hammers’ interest is the most advanced having monitored the defender who has just under 12 months remaining on his contract at Atletico Minerio.
West Ham United will make a move in January and it is believed that his club will not stand in his way should the Irons make their move.
Cresswell January departure?
Brazil have struggled long and hard to find a permanent left-back option in their first team in recent years and it seems as if Arana has emerged as the ideal solution given his impressive form for Minerio.
With just under 12 months remaining on his deal, it does seem as if a January transfer is on the cards and the Hammers may well be preparing a move to swoop in.
At 26 years old, Arana is certainly reaching the most crucial years of his career and it’s arguably a surprise to see the Hammers go for a ready-made profile than a young and hungry option that they courted over the summer for so long.
However, each to their own and given the amount of time the Irons have spent scouting Arana, he may be their preferred candidate to replace Aaron Cresswell who could well be on his way in January after a failed summer move.
The left-back slot is an area of real need for David Moyes and Tim Steidten, but whether Arana is the ideal candidate to significantly bolster that position is another matter entirely.
Let’s wait and see if this interest is formalised in January.
In other West Ham news, a journalist has revealed what he’s been told about the club’s plans in the January transfer window and an “alternate” role for one big-money London Stadium signing.